Left lobe adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation: small grafts and hemiportocaval shunts in the prevention of small-for-size syndrome

Recipient 3-Hepatic Vein Technique with Graft Venoplasty to Maximize Venous Outflow in Left Lobe Living Donor Liver Transplantation

Background

Augmentation of hepatic venous outflow is crucial in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) to maximize functional graft size and prevent venous complications. We present details of our outflow augmentation technique for left lobe grafts (LLG) in adult LDLTs, which uses all recipient 3 hepatic veins and venoplasty of graft left and middle hepatic veins. This study examines the effectiveness of our technique in preventing outflow complications and the correlation between anatomical variations of the graft hepatic veins and surgical outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 88 patients who underwent LLG-LDLT between 2012 and 2023. The patients were classified into 3 groups based on the graft hepatic vein anatomy and usage of venoplasty: group 1 (n = 10, common trunk without venoplasty), group 2 (n = 62, common trunk with venoplasty), and group 3 (n = 16, no common trunk with venoplasty).

Results

No patient developed clinically significant venous outflow complications or graft loss related to venous outflow. There were no significant differences in complication rates or ascites production among the groups. Five-year graft survival was comparable among the groups (P = 0.43). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the model for end-stage liver disease score was the only independent risk factor for increased ascites after transplant (standardized beta, 0.546; t value,4.20; P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval, 0.287-0.804), but anatomical variations of the graft hepatic veins did not influence ascites output.

Conclusions

The recipient 3 hepatic vein outflow augmentation technique with graft venoplasty can be applied to various graft hepatic venous anatomy and effectively prevents outflow-related graft loss in LLG-LDLT.

Portal flow modulation by splenic artery ligation to prevent posthepatectomy liver failure: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Posthepatectomy liver failure is a serious clinical issue with high mortality, similar in pathophysiology to small-for-size syndrome seen in liver transplantation. This study evaluates the efficacy of splenic artery ligation in reducing posthepatectomy liver failure in patients with portal venous pressure >15 mm Hg after hepatectomy.

METHODS

This single-center, randomized controlled trial was conducted from May 2019 to November 2023. Eligible participants were patients scheduled for open hepatectomy for any indication. Patients with a portal venous pressure >15 mm Hg were randomized into splenic artery ligation and control groups in a 1:1 ratio. The primary outcomes were posthepatectomy liver failure grades B and C (International Study group of Liver Surgery criteria), and secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality, comprehensive complication index, and ascites volume.

RESULTS

The study was terminated early, before reaching the calculated sample size, because the primary outcome in the intervention group demonstrated statistically significant results. Of the 92 patients, 36 had elevated portal venous pressure, which was associated with greater rates of posthepatectomy liver failure grades B and C (41.67% vs 3.57%, P < .001), increased ascites volume (5,340 mL vs 1,055 mL, P < .001), and a greater comprehensive complication index (20.90 vs 8.70, P < .001). In the randomized subset, splenic artery ligation significantly reduced portal venous pressure and the portal venous pressure-central venous pressure gradient compared with both presplenic artery ligation values and the control group and significantly lowered the incidence of posthepatectomy liver failure grades B and C (16.67% vs 66.67%, P = .006), comprehensive complication index (8.70 vs 20.90, P = .034). Splenic artery ligation was identified as an independent factor in reducing posthepatectomy liver failure (adjusted relative risk, 0.29).

CONCLUSION

Splenic artery ligation is effective in reducing posthepatectomy liver failure in patients with high portal venous pressure after hepatectomy.

Graft Inflow Modulation by Splenic Artery Ligation for Portal Hyperperfusion Does Not Decrease Rates of Early Allograft Dysfunction in Adult Live Donor Liver Transplantation: A Randomized Control Trial

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective was to compare the rates of early allograft dysfunction (EAD) in patients undergoing elective adult live donor liver transplantation (ALDLT) with and without graft portal inflow modulation (GIM) for portal hyperperfusion. The secondary objectives were to compare time to normalization of bilirubin and International Normalized Ratio, day 14 ascitic output more than 1 L, small-for-size syndrome, intensive care unit/high dependency unit and total hospital stay, and 90-day morbidity and mortality.

BACKGROUND

GIM can prevent EAD in ALDLT patients with portal hyperperfusion.

METHODS

A single-center randomized trial with and without GIM for portal hyperperfusion by splenic artery ligation (SAL) in ALDLT was performed. After reperfusion, patients with portal venous pressure (PVP)>15 mm Hg with a gradient (PVP-central venous pressure) of ≥7 mm Hg and/or portal venous flow (PVF) >250 mL/min/100 g of liver were randomized into 2 groups: GIM and No GIM.

RESULTS

75 of 209 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria, and 38 underwent GIM. Baseline PVF and PVP were comparable between the GIM and no GIM groups. SAL significantly reduced the PVF and PVP ( P <0.001). There were no significant differences in the primary and secondary outcomes between the 2 groups. In the subgroup analysis, with a Graft to Recipient Weight Ratio ≤0.8, there were no significant differences in the primary and secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

SAL significantly decreased PVP and PVF but did not decrease rates of EAD in adult LDLT.

Intraoperative Hemodynamic Monitoring and Prediction of Early Allograft Dysfunction Following Living Donor Liver Transplantation: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Multiple intraoperative hemodynamic parameters are associated with an increased risk of early allograft dysfunction (EAD) following living donor liver transplantation (LDLT); however, there is significant center-to-center variability in terms of which parameters are used. We sought to determine which intraoperative hemodynamic parameters are most predictive of EAD following LDLT.

METHODS

This is a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023409711). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were used to compare predictive parameters.

RESULTS

A total of 4399 articles were identified from 3 large, international databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science). Eighteen articles fit the inclusion criteria. The most commonly evaluated hemodynamic parameter was the postreperfusion portal venous pressure (PVP). A postreperfusion PVP of <15-20 mmHg was consistently associated with lower rates of EAD and, in some cases, improvements in patient survival. Other hemodynamic parameters evaluated included portal venous flow, hepatic arterial flow, portal venous velocities, and the hyperperfusion index.

CONCLUSION

Hemodynamic measurements indicative of portal hyperperfusion, especially elevated PVP, have been consistently associated with the development of EAD. Intraoperative hemodynamics should be monitored on all LDLT recipients, with portal inflow modulation procedures indicated if portal hyperperfusion is present.

Prediction and management of small-for-size syndrome in living donor liver transplantation

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) remains a critical challenge in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), characterized by graft insufficiency due to inadequate liver volume, leading to significant postoperative morbidity and mortality. As the global adoption of LDLT increases, the ability to predict and manage SFSS has become paramount in optimizing recipient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the pathophysiology, risk factors, and strategies for managing SFSS across the pre-, intra-, and postoperative phases. The pathophysiology of SFSS has evolved from being solely volume-based to incorporating portal hemodynamics, now recognized as small-for-flow syndrome. Key risk factors include donor-related parameters like age and graft volume, recipient-related factors such as MELD score and portal hypertension, and intraoperative factors related to venous outflow and portal inflow modulation. Current strategies to mitigate SFSS include careful graft selection based on graft-to-recipient weight ratio and liver volumetry, surgical techniques to optimize portal hemodynamics, and novel interventions such as splenic artery ligation and hemiportocaval shunts. Pharmacological agents like somatostatin and terlipressin have also shown promise in modulating portal pressure. Advances in 3D imaging and artificial intelligence-based volumetry further aid in preoperative planning. This review emphasizes the importance of a multifaceted approach to prevent and manage SFSS, advocating for standardized definitions and grading systems. Through an integrated approach to surgical techniques, hemodynamic monitoring, and perioperative management, significant strides can be made in improving the outcomes of LDLT recipients. Further research is necessary to refine these strategies and expand the application of LDLT, especially in challenging cases involving small-for-size grafts.

Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Using Left and Right Liver Grafts in Adult-to-adult Living-donor Liver Transplantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using the Korean Organ Transplantation Registry

BACKGROUND

Living-donor liver transplantation has been widely performed as an alternative to the scarce liver grafts from deceased donors. More studies are reporting favorable outcomes of left liver graft (LLG). This study compared the clinical outcomes between living-donor liver transplantation using LLG and right liver graft (RLG) with similar graft-to-recipient body weight ratios.

METHODS

This study analyzed 4601 patients from a multicenter observational cohort using the Korean Organ Transplantation Registry between 2014 and 2021. After matching the Model for End-stage Liver Disease score and graft-to-recipient body weight ratios because of the extremely different number in each group, the LLG and RLG groups comprised 142 (25.1%) and 423 (74.9%) patients, respectively.

RESULTS

For donors, the median age was higher in the LLG group than in the RLG group (34 y [range, 16-62 y] versus 30 y [16-66 y] ; P  = 0.002). For recipients, the LLG group showed higher 90-d mortality than the RLG group (11 [7.7%] versus 9 [2.1%]; P  = 0.004). The long-term graft survival was significantly worse in the LLG group ( P  = 0.011). In multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis for graft survival, LLG was not a significant risk factor (hazard ratio, 1.01 [0.54-1.87]; P  = 0.980). Otherwise, donor age (≥40 y; 2.18 y [1.35-3.52 y]; P  = 0.001) and recipients' body mass index (<18.5 kg/m 2 ; 2.98 kg/m 2 [1.52-5.84 kg/m 2 ]; P  = 0.002) were independent risk factors for graft survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the short-term and long-term graft survival was worse in the LLG group, LLG was not an independent risk factor for graft survival in multivariate analysis. LLGs are still worth considering for selected donors and recipients regarding risk factors for graft survival.

Preventing Small-for-size Syndrome in Living Donor Liver Transplantation: Guidelines From the ILTS-iLDLT-LTSI Consensus Conference

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is a well-recognized complication following liver transplantation (LT), with up to 20% developing this following living donor LT (LDLT). Preventing SFSS involves consideration of factors before the surgical procedure, including donor and recipient selection, and factors during the surgical procedure, including adequate outflow reconstruction, graft portal inflow modulation, and management of portosystemic shunts. International Liver Transplantation Society, International Living Donor Liver Transplantation Group, and Liver Transplant Society of India Consensus Conference was convened in January 2023 to develop recommendations for the prediction and management of SFSS in LDLT. The format of the conference was based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. International experts in this field were allocated to 4 working groups (diagnosis, prevention, anesthesia, and critical care considerations, and management of established SFSS). The working groups prepared evidence-based recommendations to answer-specific questions considering the currently available literature. The working group members, independent panel, and conference attendees served as jury to edit and confirm the final recommendations presented at the end of the conference by each working group separately. This report presents the final statements and evidence-based recommendations provided by working group 2 that can be implemented to prevent SFSS in LDLT patients.

Management of Established Small-for-size Syndrome in Post Living Donor Liver Transplantation: Medical, Radiological, and Surgical Interventions: Guidelines From the ILTS-iLDLT-LTSI Consensus Conference

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) following living donor liver transplantation is a complication that can lead to devastating outcomes such as prolonged poor graft function and possibly graft loss. Because of the concern about the syndrome, some transplants of mismatched grafts may not be performed. Portal hyperperfusion of a small graft and hyperdynamic splanchnic circulation are recognized as main pathogenic factors for the syndrome. Management of established SFSS is guided by the severity of the presentation with the initial focus on pharmacological therapy to modulate portal flow and provide supportive care to the patient with the goal of facilitating graft regeneration and recovery. When medical management fails or condition progresses with impending dysfunction or even liver failure, interventional radiology (IR) and/or surgical interventions to reduce portal overperfusion should be considered. Although most patients have good outcomes with medical, IR, and/or surgical management that allow graft regeneration, the risk of graft loss increases dramatically in the setting of bilirubin >10 mg/dL and INR>1.6 on postoperative day 7 or isolated bilirubin >20 mg/dL on postoperative day 14. Retransplantation should be considered based on the overall clinical situation and the above postoperative laboratory parameters. The following recommendations focus on medical and IR/surgical management of SFSS as well as considerations and timing of retransplantation when other therapies fail.

Left Lobe First With Purely Laparoscopic Approach: A Novel Strategy to Maximize Donor Safety in Adult Living Donor Liver Transplantation

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate outcome of left-lobe graft (LLG) first combined with purely laparoscopic donor hemihepatectomy (PLDH) as a strategy to minimize donor risk.

BACKGROUND

An LLG first approach and a PLDH are 2 methods used to reduce surgical stress for donors in adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). But the risk associated with application LLG first combined with PLDH is not known.

METHODS

From 2012 to 2023, 186 adult LDLTs were performed with hemiliver grafts, procured by open surgery in 95 and PLDH in 91 cases. LLGs were considered first when graft-to-recipient weight ratio ≥0.6%. Following a 4-month adoption process, all donor hepatectomies, since December 2019, were performed laparoscopically.

RESULTS

There was one intraoperative conversion to open (1%). Mean operative times were similar in laparoscopic and open cases (366 vs 371 minutes). PLDH provided shorter hospital stays, lower blood loss, and lower peak aspartate aminotransferase. Peak bilirubin was lower in LLG donors compared with right-lobe graft donors (1.4 vs 2.4 mg/dL, P < 0.01), and PLDH further improved the bilirubin levels in LLG donors (1.2 vs 1.6 mg/dL, P < 0.01). PLDH also afforded a low rate of early complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ II, 8% vs 22%, P = 0.007) and late complications, including incisional hernia (0% vs 13.7%, P < 0.001), compared with open cases. LLG was more likely to have a single duct than a right-lobe graft (89% vs 60%, P < 0.01). Importantly, with the aggressive use of LLG in 47% of adult LDLT, favorable graft survival was achieved without any differences between the type of graft and surgical approach.

CONCLUSIONS

The LLG first with PLDH approach minimizes surgical stress for donors in adult LDLT without compromising recipient outcomes. This strategy can lighten the burden for living donors, which could help expand the donor pool.

Volume and flow modulation strategies to mitigate post-hepatectomy liver failure

INTRODUCTION

Post hepatectomy liver failure is the most common cause of death following major hepatic resections with a perioperative mortality rate between 40% to 60%. Various strategies have been devised to increase the volume and function of future liver remnant (FLR). This study aims to review the strategies used for volume and flow modulation to reduce the incidence of post hepatectomy liver failure.

METHOD

An electronic search was performed of the MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed databases from 2000 to 2022 using the following search strategy "Post hepatectomy liver failure", "flow modulation", "small for size flow syndrome", "portal vein embolization", "dual vein embolization", "ALPPS" and "staged hepatectomy" to identify all articles published relating to this topic.

RESULTS

Volume and flow modulation strategies have evolved over time to maximize the volume and function of FLR to mitigate the risk of PHLF. Portal vein with or without hepatic vein embolization/ligation, ALPPS, and staged hepatectomy have resulted in significant hypertrophy and kinetic growth of FLR. Similarly, techniques including portal flow diversion, splenic artery ligation, splenectomy and pharmacological agents like somatostatin and terlipressin are employed to reduce the risk of small for size flow syndrome SFSF syndrome by decreasing portal venous flow and increasing hepatic artery flow at the same time.

CONCLUSION

The current review outlines the various strategies of volume and flow modulation that can be used in isolation or combination in the management of patients at risk of PHLF.

Living Donor Liver Transplantation With Augmented Venous Outflow and Splenectomy: A Promised Land for Small Left Lobe Grafts

OBJECTIVE

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using small grafts, especially left lobe grafts (H1234-MHV) (LLG), continues to be a challenge due to small-for-size syndrome (SFSS). We herein demonstrate that with surgical modifications, outcomes with small grafts can be improved.

METHODS

Between 2012 and 2020, we performed 130 adult LDLT using 61 (47%) LLG (H1234-MHV) in a single Enterprise. The median graft-to-recipient weight ratio was 0.84%, with graft-to-recipient weight ratio <0.7% accounting for 22%. Splenectomy was performed in 72 (56%) patients for inflow modulation before (n=50) or after (n=22) graft reperfusion. In LLG-LDLT, venous outflow was achieved using all three recipient hepatic veins. In right lobe graft (H5678) (RLG)-LDLT, the augmented graft right hepatic vein was anastomosed to the recipient's cava with a large cavotomy. Outcome measures include SFSS, early allograft dysfunction (EAD), and survival.

RESULTS

Graft survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 94%, 90%, and 83%, respectively, with no differences between LLG (H1234-MHV) and RLG (H5678). Splenectomy significantly reduced portal flow without increasing the complication rate. Despite the aggressive use of small grafts, SFSS and EAD developed in only 1 (0.8%) and 18 (13.8%) patients, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression revealed model for end-stage liver disease score and LLG (H1234-MHV) as independent risk factors for EAD and splenectomy as a protective factor (odds ratio: 0.09; P =0.03). For LLG (H1234-MHV)-LDLT, patients who underwent prereperfusion splenectomy tended to have better 1-year graft survival than those receiving postreperfusion splenectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

LLG (H1234-MHV) are feasible in adult LDLT with excellent outcomes comparable to RLG (H5678). Venous outflow augmentation and splenectomy help lower the threshold of using small-for-size grafts without compromising graft survival.

Mechanisms of the ascites volume differences between patients receiving a left or right hemi-liver graft liver transplantation: From biofluidic analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Post-transplant refractory ascites (RA) is common in patients receiving living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using a left hemi-liver graft than in those using a right hemi-liver graft. However, there is currently no clear mechanism explaining the effect of grafts on ascites drainage. The purpose of this study is to analyze the values of blood flow parameters in the portal vein under different grafts using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to interpret the relationship between portal pressure values with ascites drainage.

METHODS

In this work, ascites drainage was counted in 30 patients who underwent left-sided liver transplantation and 26 patients who underwent right-sided liver transplantation. The portal vein flow models of the transplanted liver under different flow rates were established based on computed tomography (CT) images and finite element theory. Ascites drainage and blood flow parameters were qualitatively compared.

RESULTS

The results show that the ascites drained from patients who received LDLT with a left hemi-liver is three times as that with a right hemi-liver. The simulation results show that the coefficient of the pressure-velocity curve of the left-liver is 1.7 times of the right-liver under the same hydrodynamic conditions, which qualitatively agrees with the clinical data. Moreover, the streamline of the transplanted left liver shows more vortexes compared with the right liver, which is a major reason for the left liver's higher pressure value.

CONCLUSION

This clinical phenomenon is reproduced and comprehensively explained by the hemodynamic parameters of the portal vein. This work establishes the relationship between portal pressure values and floating water drainage, and offers a new way for physicians to predict postoperative risks intuitively.

Minimizing the risk of small-for-size syndrome after liver surgery

BACKGROUND

Primary and secondary liver tumors are not always amenable to resection due to location and size. Inadequate future liver remnant (FLR) may prevent patients from having a curative resection or may result in increased postoperative morbidity and mortality from complications related to small-for-size syndrome (SFSS).

DATA SOURCES

This comprehensive review analyzed the principles, mechanism and risk factors associated with SFSS and presented current available options in the evaluation of FLR when planning liver surgery. In addition, it provided a detailed description of specific modalities that can be used before, during or after surgery, in order to optimize the conditions for a safe resection and minimize the risk of SFSS.

RESULTS

Several methods which aim to reduce tumor burden, preserve healthy liver parenchyma, induce hypertrophy of FLR or prevent postoperative complications help minimize the risk of SFSS.

CONCLUSIONS

With those techniques the indications of radical treatment for patients with liver tumors have significantly expanded. The successful outcome depends on appropriate patient selection, the individualization and modification of interventions and the right timing of surgery.

Auxiliary Liver Transplantation for Cirrhosis: From APOLT to RAPID: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

To survey the available literature regarding the use of auxiliary liver transplantation (ALT) in the setting of cirrhosis.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND

ALT is a type of liver transplantation (LT) procedure in which part of the cirrhotic liver is resected and part of the liver graft is transplanted. The cirrhotic liver left in situ acts as an auxiliary liver until the graft has reached sufficient volume. Recently, a 2-stage concept named RAPID (Resection and Partial Liver segment 2/3 transplantation with Delayed total hepatectomy) was developed, which combines hypertrophy of the small graft followed by delayed removal of the native liver.

METHODS

A scoping review of the literature on ALT for cirrhosis was performed, focusing on the historical background of RAPID and the status of RAPID for this indication. The new comprehensive nomenclature for hepatectomy ("New World" terminology) was used in this review.

RESULTS

A total of 72 cirrhotic patients underwent ALT [heterotopic (n = 34), orthotopic (Auxiliary partial orthotopic liver transplantation, n = 34 including 5 followed by resection of the native liver at the second stage) and RAPID (n = 4)]. Among the 9 2-stage LTs (APOLT, n = 5; RAPID, n = 4), portal blood flow modulation was performed in 6 patients by deportalization of the native liver (n = 4), portosystemic shunt creation (n = 1), splenic artery ligation (n = 3) or splenectomy (n = 1). The delay between the first and second stages ranged from 18 to 90 days. This procedure led to an increase in the graft-to-recipient weight ratio between 33% and 156%. Eight patients were alive at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Two-stage LT and, more recently, the RAPID procedure are viable options for increasing the number of transplantations for cirrhotic patients by using small grafts.

Role of percutaneous radiological treatment in biliary complications associated with adult left lobe living donor liver transplantation: a single-center experience

PURPOSE

Biliary complications develop at a higher rate in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) compared with cadaveric liver transplantation. Almost all studies about biliary complications after LDLT were made with the right lobe. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of biliary complications developing after adult left lobe LDLT and to evaluate the efficacy of the algorithm followed in diagnosis and treatment, particularly percutaneous radiological treatment.

METHODS

A total of 2185 LDLT operations performed in our center between May 2009 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed and patients receiving left lobe LDLT were analyzed regarding biliary complications and treatments. Biliary complications were treated via percutaneous drainage under ultrasound (US) guidance, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC)/ percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD). Patient demographics, ERCP procedures before percutaneous treatment, and percutaneous treatment indications were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 69 adult patients received left lobe LDLT. Biliary complications requiring endoscopic and/or percutaneous treatment developed in 28 patients (40%). Of these patients, 4 had bile leakage (14%), 20 had anastomosis stricture (72%), and 4 had both leakage and anastomosis stricture (14%). External drainage treatment under ultrasound guidance was sufficient for 2 of 4 patients with bile leakage, and these cases were accepted as minor bile leakage (7%). Overall, 26 patients underwent ERCP; of these, 8 were referred for PTC/PTBD because the guidewire and/or balloon-stent could not pass the anastomosis stricture (n=7) and common bile duct cannulation could not be obtained because of duodenal diverticulum (n=1). Diagnostic PTC was performed in 10 patients, 8 were referred after inadequate/failed ERCP procedure and two were referred directly without ERCP. Anastomosis stricture was found in 7 patients and anastomosis stricture and bile leakage in 3. In 7 patients determined to have stricture, balloon dilatation was applied and then biliary drainage was performed. In 3 patients who had leakage and anastomosis stricture, balloon dilatation was applied for stricture; after dilatation, an IEBD catheter was placed through the leakage region in 2 patients, while a covered metallic stent passing through the leakage region was placed in one patient.

CONCLUSION

Generally, ERCP is the first preferred method in biliary complications of LDLT; however, in cases where a response cannot be obtained by endoscopic treatment or require complex and/or aggressive treatment, percutaneous radiological treatment should be the treatment of choice before surgery in left lobe LDLT.

The beneficial impacts of splanchnic vasoactive agents on hepatic functional recovery in massive hepatectomy porcine model

Background

Excessive portal pressure after massive hepatectomy can cause hepatic sinusoidal injury and have deleterious impacts on hepatic functional recovery, contributing to developing post-hepatectomy liver failure. This study aimed to assess the effects of splanchnic vasoactive agents on hepatic functional recovery and regeneration while clarifying the underlying mechanism, using a 70% hepatectomy porcine model.

Methods

Eighteen pigs undergoing 70% hepatectomy were involved in this study and divided into three groups: control (n=6), terlipressin (n=6), and octreotide (n=6). Terlipressin (0.5 mg) and octreotide (0.2 mg) were administered 3 times a day for each group with the first dose starting just before surgery until the 7th postoperative day, at which time the surviving pigs were sacrificed. During the period, portal pressure, liver weight, biochemical analysis, histological injury score, and molecular markers were evaluated and compared between groups.

Results

The 7-day survival rates in the octreotide, terlipressin, and control groups were 100%, 83.3%, and 66.7%, respectively. The portal pressures decreased in both terlipressin and octreotide groups than the control group at 30 minutes, 1 hour and 6 hours after hepatectomy. The amount of regeneration measured by liver weight to body weight ratio at the time of sacrifice in the terlipressin group was smaller than that in the control group (117% vs. 129%, P=0.03). Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and total bilirubin levels at 1 and 6 hours after hepatectomy and prothrombin time/international normalized ratio (PT/INR) at 6 hours after hepatectomy were significantly improved in the terlipressin and octreotide groups compared to the control group. Serum endothelin-1 (ET-1) was significantly lower in the terlipressin group than that in the control group 6 hours after hepatectomy (P<0.01). The histological injury score in the control group was significantly higher than that in the terlipressin group on the 7th postoperative day (P<0.01).

Conclusions

Splanchnic vasoactive agents, such as terlipressin and octreotide, could effectively decrease portal pressure and attenuate liver injury after massive hepatectomy.

Successful auxiliary two-staged partial resection liver transplantation (ASPIRE-LTx) for end-stage liver disease to avoid small-for-size situations

Background

Risks for living-liver donors are lower in case of a left liver donation, however, due to lower graft volume, the risk for small-for-size situations in the recipients increases. This study aims to prevent small-for-size situations in recipients using an auxiliary two-staged partial resection liver transplantation (LTX) of living-donated left liver lobes.

Case presentation

Two patients received a two-stage auxiliary LTX using living-donated left liver lobes after left lateral liver resection. The native extended right liver was removed in a second operation after sufficient hypertrophy of the left liver graft had occurred. Neither donor developed postoperative complications. In both recipients, the graft volume increased by an average of 105% (329 ml to 641 ml), from a graft-to-body-weight ratio of 0.54 to 1.08 within 11 days after LTX, so that the remnant native right liver could be removed. No recipient developed small-for-size syndrome; graft function and overall condition is good in both recipients after a follow-up time of 25 months.

Conclusions

Auxiliary two-staged partial resection LTX using living-donor left lobes is technically feasible and can prevent small-for-size situation. This new technique can expand the potential living-donor pool and contributes to increase donor safety.

Small-for-size graft, small-for-size syndrome and inflow modulation in living donor liver transplantation

The extended application of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has revealed the problem of graft size mismatching called "small-for-size syndrome (SFSS)." The initial trials to resolve this problem involved increasing the procured graft size, from left to right, and even extending to include a right lobe graft. Clinical cases of living right lobe donations have been reported since then, drawing attention to the risks of increasing the liver volume procured from a living donor. However, not only other modes of increasing graft volume (GV) such as auxiliary or dual liver transplantation, but also control of the increased portal pressure caused by a small-for-size graft (SFSG), such as a porto-systemic shunt or splenectomy and optimal outflow reconstruction, have been trialed with some positive results. To establish an effective strategy for transplanting SFSG and preventing SFSS, it is essential to have precise knowledge and tactics to evaluate graft quality and GV, when performing these LDLTs with portal pressure control and good venous outflow. Thus, we reviewed the updated literature on the pathogenesis of and strategies for using SFSG.

Long-Term Financial, Psychosocial, and Overall Health-Related Quality of Life After Living Liver Donation

BACKGROUND

To assess the impact of living liver donation (LD) in a diverse and aging population up to 20 y after donation, particularly with regard to medical, financial, psychosocial, and overall health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

METHODS

Patients undergoing LD between 1999 and 2009 were recruited to respond to the Short-Form 36 and a novel Donor Quality of Life Survey at two time points (2010 and 2018).

RESULTS

Sixty-eight living liver donors (LLDs) completed validated surveys, with a mean follow-up of 11.5 ± 5.1 y. Per Donor Quality of Life Survey data, physical activity or strength was not impacted by LD in most patients. All respondents returned to school or employment, and 82.4% reported that LD had no impact on school or work performance. LD did not impact health insurability in 95.6% of donors, and only one patient experienced difficulty obtaining life insurance. Overall, 97.1% of respondents did not regret LD. Short-Form 36 survey-measured outcomes were similar between LLDs and the general U.S.

POPULATION

LLDs who responded in both 2010 and 2018 were followed for an overall average of 15.4 ± 2.4 y and HRQOL outcomes in these donors also remained statistically equivalent to U.S. population norms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents the longest postdonation follow-up and offers unique insight related to HRQOL in a highly diverse patient population. Although LLDs continue to maintain excellent HRQOL outcomes up to 20 y after donation, continued lifetime follow-up is required to accurately provide young, healthy potential donors with an accurate description of the risks that they may incur on aging.

Liver transplantation in patients with portal vein thrombosis: A strategic road map throughout management

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation in the setting of portal vein thrombosis is an intricate issue that occasionally necessitates extraordinary procedures for portal flow restoration. However, to date, there is no consensus on a persistent management strategy, particularly with extensive forms. This work aims to introduce our experience-based surgical management algorithm for portal vein thrombosis during liver transplantation and to clarify some of the debatable circumstances associated with this problematic issue.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2019, 494 adults underwent liver transplantation at our institute. Ninety patients had preoperative portal vein thrombosis, and 79 patients underwent living donor liver transplantation. Our algorithm trichotomized the management plan into 3 pathways based on portal vein thrombosis grade. The surgical procedures implemented included thrombectomy, interposition vein grafts, jump grafts from the superior mesenteric vein, jump grafts from a collateral and renoportal anastomosis in 56, 13, 11, 4, and 2 patients, respectively. Four patients with mural thrombi did not require any special intervention.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients experienced posttransplant portal vein complications. They all proved to have a patent portal vein by the end of follow-up regardless of the management modality. No significant survival difference was observed between cohorts with versus without portal vein thrombosis. The early graft loss rate was significantly higher with advanced grades (P = .048) as well as technically demanding procedures (P = .032).

CONCLUSION

A stepwise broad-minded strategy should always be adopted when approaching advanced portal vein thrombosis during liver transplantation. An industrious preoperative evaluation should always be carried out to locate the ideal reliable source for portal flow restoration.

Small-for-size syndrome in liver transplantation: Definition, pathophysiology and management

BACKGROUND

Since the first success in an adult patient, living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has become an universally used procedure. Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is a well-known complication after partial LT, especially in cases of adult-to-adult LDLT. The definition of SFSS slightly varies among transplant physicians. The use of a partial liver graft has risks of SFSS development. Persistent portal vein (PV) hypertension and PV hyper-perfusion after LT were identified as the main factors. Hence, various approaches were explored to modulate PV flow and decrease PV pressure in order to alleviate this syndrome. Herein, the definition, clinical symptoms, pathophysiology, basic research, as well as preventive and treatment strategies for SFSS are reviewed based on an extensive review of the literature and on our own experiences.

DATA SOURCES

The articles were collected through PubMed using search terms "liver transplantation", "living donor liver transplantation", "living liver donation", "partial graft", "small-for-size graft", "small-for-size syndrome", "graft volume", "remnant liver", "standard liver volume", "graft to recipient body weight ratio", "sarcopenia", "porcine", "swine", and "rat". English publications published before March 31, 2020 were included in this review.

RESULTS

Many transplant surgeons performed PV flow modulation, including portocaval shunt, splenic artery ligation and splenectomy. With these techniques, patient outcome has been improved even when using a "small" graft. Other factors, such as preoperative recipients' nutritional and skeletal muscle status, graft congestion, and donor factors, were also identified as risk factors which all have been addressed using various strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical approach controlling PV flow and pressure could help to prevent SFSS especially in severely ill recipients. In the absence of efficacious medications to resolve SFSS, conservative treatments, including aggressive fluid balance correction for massive ascites, anti-microbiological therapy to prevent or control sepsis and intensive nutritional therapy, are all required if SFSS could not be prevented.

Living donor liver transplantation in small-for-size setting

Small-for-Size Syndrome (SFSS) is one of the most feared complication of adult split liver and living donor liver transplantation. SFSS stems from a disproportionate/excessive portal vein flow relative to the volume of the implanted liver graft, and is currently one of the major practical limits to partial liver grafts' transplantation. In the last few decades many graft inflow modulation (GIM) techniques have been proposed to curtail the portal vein flow, allowing for successful transplantation of small partial liver grafts. Graft inflow modulation techniques span from Splenic Artery Ligation (SAL), to Splenectomy, Porto-Systemic Shunts and the lately proposed Splenic Devascularization. A patient tailored approach balancing the risk of SFSS with GIM specific morbidity, is more important than identifying the ideal GIM technique. Here we summarize the most recently published data to provide general indications in the challenging preoperative choice of a GIM techniques.

Post-transplant inflow modulation for early allograft dysfunction after living donor liver transplantation

Background

To treat small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), many procedures were described for portal flow modulation before, during, or after transplantation. The selection of the procedure as well as the best timing remains controversial.

Case presentation

A 43-year-old female with end-stage liver disease underwent LDLT with extended left with caudate lobe graft from her donor who was her 41-year-old brother (graft volume/standard liver volume (GV/SLV), 35.7%; graft to recipient weight ratio (GRWR), 0.67%). During the surgery, splenectomy could not be performed owing to severe peri-splenic adhesions to avoid the ruined bleedings. The splenic artery ligation was not also completely done because it was dorsal to the pancreas and difficult to be approached. Finally, adequate portal vein (PV) inflow was confirmed after portal venous thrombectomy. As having post-transplant optional procedures that are accessible for PV flow modulation, any other procedures for PV modulation during LDLT were not done until the postoperative assessment of the graft function and PV flow for possible postoperative modulation of the portal flow accordingly. Postoperative PV flow kept as high as 30 cm/s. By the end of the 1st week, there was a progressive deterioration of the total bilirubin profile (peak as 19.4 mg/dL) and ascitic fluid amount exceeded 1000 mL/day. Therefore, splenic artery embolization was done effectively and safely on the 10th postoperative day (POD) to reverse early allograft dysfunction as PV flow significantly decreased to keep within 20 cm/s and serum total bilirubin levels gradually declined with decreased amounts of ascites below 500 mL on POD 11 and thereafter. The patient was discharged on POD 28 with good condition.

Conclusions

SFSS can be prevented or reversed by the portal inflow modulation, even by post-transplant procedure. This case emphasizes that keeping accessible angiographic treatment options for PV modulation, such as splenic artery embolization, after LDLT is quite feasible.

A systematic review of small for size syndrome after major hepatectomy and liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Major hepatectomy (MH) and particular types of liver transplantation (LT) (reduced size graft, living-donor and split-liver transplantation) lead to a reduction in liver mass. As the portal venous return remains the same it results in a reciprocal and proportionate rise in portal venous pressure potentially resulting in small for size syndrome (SFSS). The aim of this study was to review the incidence, diagnosis and management of SFSS amongst recipients of LT and MH.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed in accordance with the 2010 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The following terms were used to search PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library in July 2019: ("major hepatectomy" or "liver resection" or "liver transplantation") AND ("small for size syndrome" or "post hepatectomy liver failure"). The primary outcome was a diagnosis of SFSS.

RESULTS

Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria and could be included in this review. In total 2728 patients were included of whom 316 (12%) patients met criteria for SFSS or post hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). Of these, 31 (10%) fulfilled criteria for PHLF following MH. 8 of these patients developed intractable ascites alongside elevated portal venous pressure following MH indicative of SFSS.

CONCLUSION

SFSS is under-recognised following major hepatectomy and should be considered as an underlying cause of PHLF. Surgical and pharmacological therapies are available to reduce portal congestion and reverse SFSS.

Is Portal Inflow Modulation Always Necessary for Successful Utilization of Small Volume Living Donor Liver Grafts?

Although the well-accepted lower limit of the graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR) for successful living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) remains 0.80%, many believe grafts with lower GRWR may suffice with portal inflow modulation (PIM), resulting in equally good recipient outcomes. This study was done to evaluate the outcomes of LDLT with small-for-size grafts (GRWR <0.80%). Of 1321 consecutive adult LDLTs from January 2012 to December 2017, 287 (21.7%) had GRWR <0.80%. PIM was performed (hemiportocaval shunt [HPCS], n = 109; splenic artery ligation [SAL], n = 14) in 42.9% patients. No PIM was done if portal pressure (PP) in the dissection phase was <16 mm Hg. Mean age of the cohort was 49.3 ± 9.1 years. Median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was 14, and the lowest GRWR was 0.54%. A total of 72 recipients had a GRWR <0.70%, of whom 58 underwent HPCS (1 of whom underwent HPCS + SAL) and 14 underwent no PIM, whereas 215 had GRWR between 0.70% and 0.79%, of whom 51 and 14 underwent HPCS and SAL, respectively. During the same period, 1034 had GRWR ≥0.80% and did not undergo PIM. Small-for-size syndrome developed in 2.8% patients. Three patients needed shunt closure at 1 and 4 weeks and 60 months. The 1-year patient survival rates were comparable. In conclusion, with PIM protocol that optimizes postperfusion PP, low-GRWR grafts can be used for appropriately selected LDLT recipients with acceptable outcomes.

Portal flow modulation in living donor liver transplantation: review with a focus on splenectomy

Small-for-size graft (SFSG) syndrome after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is the dysfunction of a small graft, characterized by coagulopathy, cholestasis, ascites, and encephalopathy. It is a serious complication of LDLT and usually triggered by excessive portal flow transmitted to the allograft in the postperfusion setting, resulting in sinusoidal congestion and hemorrhage. Portal overflow injures the liver directly through nutrient excess, endothelial activation, and sinusoidal shear stress, and indirectly through arterial vasoconstriction. These conditions may be attenuated with portal flow modulation. Attempts have been made to control excessive portal flow to the SFSG, including simultaneous splenectomy, splenic artery ligation, hemi-portocaval shunt, and pharmacological manipulation, with positive outcomes. Currently, a donor liver is considered a SFSG when the graft-to-recipient weight ratio is less than 0.8 or the ratio of the graft volume to the standard liver volume is less than 40%. A strategy for transplanting SFSG safely into recipients and avoiding extensive surgery in the living donor could effectively address the donor shortage. We review the literature and assess our current knowledge of and strategies for portal flow modulation in LDLT.

Endoscopic treatment of biliary complications in left lobe living donor liver transplantation

Purpose

Almost all of the publications regarding the treatment of biliary complications after liver transplantation are related to biliary complications after right lobe living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and cadaveric liver transplantation (LT). The number of publications regarding endoscopic treatment of biliary complications after left lobe LDLT is negligible. In this study, we aimed to present the results of endoscopic treatments applied in the management of biliary complications developed in left-lobe duct-to-duct LDLT patients.

Patients and methods

Between 2008 and 2018, patients with duct-to-duct anastomosis who underwent ERCP due to biliary complication after left lobe LDLT were included in the study. Clinical data included patient demographics, indications for LDLT, duration till the first ERCP after LDLT, number of ERCP procedures, ERCP indications (stricture or leak), and treatment outcomes, including the need for percutaneous and surgical interventions.

Results

Among 13 patients who underwent ERCP, 2 (15%) had biliary leakage and 11 (8%) had an anastomotic stricture. Our endoscopic success rate was 100% in patients with biliary stricture. Despite the implementation of ERCP on two patients with leakage, they died due to the biliary complication.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that endoscopic treatment methods are successful in the management of biliary stricture complication in patients with left lobe LDLT and duct-to-duct anastomosis. Although our findings show that endoscopic treatments fail when there is a leakage after left lobe LDLT, there is a need for further studies that include more patients to reach a definite conclusion.

Is Portal Venous Pressure Modulation Still Indicated for All Recipients in Living Donor Liver Transplantation?

There is a consensus that portal venous pressure (PVP) modulation prevents portal hypertension (PHT) and consequent complications after adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (ALDLT). However, PVP-modulation strategies need to be updated based on the most recent findings. We examined our 10-year experience of PVP modulation and reevaluated whether it was necessary for all recipients or for selected recipients in ALDLT. In this retrospective study, 319 patients who underwent ALDLT from 2007 to 2016 were divided into 3 groups according to the necessity and results of PVP modulation: not indicated (n = 189), indicated and succeeded (n = 92), and indicated but failed (n = 38). Graft survival and associations with various clinical factors were investigated. PVP modulation was performed mainly by splenectomy to lower final PVP to ≤15 mm Hg. Successful PVP modulation improved prognosis to be equivalent to that of patients who did not need modulation, whereas failed modulation was associated with increased incidence of small-for-size syndrome (SFSS; P = 0.003) and early graft loss (EGL; P = 0.006). Among patients with failed modulation, donor age ≥ 45 years (hazard ratio [HR], 3.67; P = 0.02) and ABO incompatibility (HR, 3.90; P = 0.01) were independent risk factors for graft loss. Survival analysis showed that PVP > 15 mm Hg was related to poor prognosis in grafts from either ABO-incompatible or older donor age ≥ 45 years (P < 0.001), but it did not negatively affect grafts from ABO-compatible/identical and young donor age < 45 years (P = 0.27). In conclusion, intentional PVP modulation is not necessarily required in all recipients. Although grafts from both ABO-compatible/identical and young donors can tolerate PHT, lowering PVP to ≤15 mm Hg is a key to preventing SFSS and consequent EGL with grafts from either ABO-incompatible or older donors.

Intraoperative Surgical Portosystemic Shunt in Liver Transplantation: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Expanded clinical and surgical techniques in liver transplantation can markedly improve patient and graft survival. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative portocaval shunts in liver transplantation.

Material/Methods

Searches were conducted in Cochrane, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases, and updated in January 2018. The following specific outcomes of interest were defined and evaluated separated using 2 different reviews and meta-analyses for 1) hemi-portocaval shunt (HPCS) and 2) temporary portocaval shunt (TPCS). Comparative studies were analyzed separately for both surgical portocaval shunt modalities.

Results

Only 1 well-designed randomized controlled trial was found. Most studies were retrospective or prospective. Initially, we found 1479 articles. Of those selected, 853 were from PubMed/MEDLINE, 32 were from Cochrane and 594 were from EMBASE. Our meta-analysis included a total of 3232 patients for all the included studies. Results found that 41 patients with HPCS experienced increased 1-year patient survival (OR 16.33; P=0.02) and increased 1-year graft survival (OR 17.67; P=0.01). The TPCS analysis with 1633 patients found patients had significantly shorter intensive care unit length of stay (days) (P=0.006) and hospital length of stay (P=0.02) and had decreased primary nonfunction (PNF) (OR 0.30, P=0.02) and mortality rates (OR 0.52, P=0.01).

Conclusions

Intraoperative surgical portosystemic shunt in relation to liver transplantation with TPCS was able to prevent PNF, decrease hospital length of stay and unit care length of stay. Furthermore, in analyzing data for patients with HPCS, we observed increases in the 1-year graft and patient survival rates. More prospective randomized trials are needed to arrive at a more precise conclusion.

Evaluation of postoperative ascites after somatostatin infusion following hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma by laparotomy: a multicenter randomized double-blind controlled trial (SOMAPROTECT)

Background

The majority of patients undergoing hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) suffer from underlying liver disease and are exposed to the risk of postoperative ascites, which is favored by an imbalance between portal venous inflow and a diminished hepatic volume. Finding a reversible, non-invasive method for modulating the portal inflow would be of interest as it could be used temporarily during the early postoperative course. Somatostatin, a well-known drug already used in several indications, may limit the risk of postoperative ascites and liver failure by decreasing portal pressure after hepatectomy for HCC in patients with underlying liver disease. We aimed to evaluate the impact of somatostatin postoperative infusion on the incidence of ascites following hepatectomy by laparotomy for HCC in patients with underlying liver disease.

Methods/design

The SOMAPROTECT study is a multicenter randomized double-blind placebo controlled phase III trial comparing two arms of patients with underlying liver disease undergoing hepatectomy for HCC by open approach. All patients will have primary abdominal drainage before closure. Patients in the experimental arm will receive a postoperative intravenous infusion of somatostatin during 6 days. Patients in the control group will receive a placebo infusion for the same duration. The primary endpoint will be the presence or absence of postoperative ascites occurring during the 90-day postoperative course, defined as ≥500 ml/24 h of fluid in the drains during at least 3 days or any ascites requiring an invasive procedure comprising percutaneous puncture or drainage. Secondary endpoints will be duration and total volume of ascites, postoperative 90-day mortality and morbidity, liver failure, acute renal failure, length of stay in intensive care unit and hospital stay. The total number of patients to be enrolled was calculated to be 152.

Discussion

Postoperative ascites remains a major issue after hepatectomy for HCC as it is associated with increased morbidity, liver and renal failure, the need for specific treatments and prolonged hospital stay. This study represents the first randomized controlled trial to assess the benefits of somatostatin on the risk of postoperative ascites after surgery for HCC.

Trial registration

NCT02799212 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier). Registered prior to conducting the research on 9 June 2016.

Feasibility of using marginal liver grafts in living donor liver transplantation

Liver transplantation (LT) is one of the most effective treatments for end-stage liver disease caused by related risk factors when liver resection is contraindicated. Additionally, despite the decrease in the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) over the past two decades, the absolute number of HBsAg-positive people has increased, leading to an increase in HBV-related liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Consequently, a large demand exists for LT. While the wait time for patients on the donor list is, to some degree, shorter due to the development of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), there is still a shortage of liver grafts. Furthermore, recipients often suffer from emergent conditions, such as liver dysfunction or even hepatic encephalopathy, which can lead to a limited choice in grafts. To expand the pool of available liver grafts, one option is the use of organs that were previously considered “unusable” by many, which are often labeled “marginal” organs. Many previous studies have reported on the possibilities of using marginal grafts in orthotopic LT; however, there is still a lack of discussion on this topic, especially regarding the feasibility of using marginal grafts in LDLT. Therefore, the present review aimed to summarize the feasibility of using marginal liver grafts for LDLT and discuss the possibility of expanding the application of these grafts.

Living Donor Liver Transplantation: Technical Innovations

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has found a place to serve the end-stage liver disease community as the donor safety and recipient suitability has been elucidated. Donor safety is of paramount importance and transplant programs must continue endeavors to maintain the highest possible standards. At the same time, adequacy of grafts based on recipient clinical status via their model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score and volumetric studies to achieve a GRBWR >0.8, along with special attention to anatomic tailoring and portal venous flow optimization are necessary for successful transplantation. Technical innovations have improved sequentially the utility and availability of LDLT.

Hepatic Hemodynamics and Portal Flow Modulation: The A2ALL Experience

OBJECTIVE

A principal aim of the Adult-to-Adult Living Donor Liver Transplantation Cohort Study was to study hepatic blood flow and effect of portal flow modulation on graft outcomes in the setting of increasing use of smaller and left lobe grafts.

METHODS

Recipients of 274 living donor liver transplant were enrolled in the Adult-to-Adult Living Donor Liver Transplantation Cohort Study, including 233 (85.0%) right lobes, 40 (14.6%) left lobes, and 1 (0.5%) left lateral section. Hepatic hemodynamics were recorded after reperfusion. A total of 57 portal flow modulations were performed on 52 subjects.

RESULTS

Modulation lowered portal pressure in 68% of subjects with inconsistent effects on hepatic arterial and portal flow. A higher rate of graft dysfunction was observed in modulated vs. unmodulated subjects (31% vs. 18%; P = 0.03); however, graft survival in modulated subjects was not different from unmodulated subjects at 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest the need for a study using a prespecified portal flow modulation protocol with defined indications to better define the effects of these interventions.

The International Liver Transplantation Society Living Donor Liver Transplant Recipient Guideline

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has been increasingly embraced around the world as an important strategy to address the shortage of deceased donor livers. The aim of this guideline, approved by the International Liver Transplantation Society (ILTS), is to provide a collection of expert opinions, consensus, and best practices surrounding LDLT. Recommendations were developed from an analysis of the National Library of Medicine living donor transplantation indexed literature using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology. Writing was guided by the ILTS Policy on the Development and Use of Practice Guidelines (www.ilts.org). Intended for use by physicians, these recommendations support specific approaches to the diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive aspects of care of living donor liver transplant recipients.

Compared to cadaveric liver transplantation, live donor LT (LDLT) is challenged by ethical, medical and surgical considerations, many of which are still unresolved. The aim of this guideline is to provide a collection of expert opinions, consensus, and best practices surrounding LDLT.

Small for size syndrome difficult dilemma: Lessons from 10 years single centre experience in living donor liver transplantation

AIM

To analyze the incidence, risk factors, prevention, treatment and outcome of small for size syndrome (SFSS) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

METHODS

Through-out more than 10 years: During the period from April 2003 to the end of 2013, 174 adult-to-adults LDLT (A-ALDLT) had been performed at National Liver Institute, Menoufiya University, Shibin Elkoom, Egypt. We collected the data of those patients to do this cohort study that is a single-institution retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database analyzing the incidence, risk factors, prevention, treatment and outcome of SFSS in a period started from the end of 2013 to the end of 2015. The median period of follow-up reached 40.50 m, range (0-144 m).

RESULTS

SFSS was diagnosed in 20 (11.5%) of our recipients. While extra-small graft [small for size graft (SFSG)], portal hypertension, steatosis and left lobe graft were significant predictors of SFSS in univariate analysis (P = 0.00, 0.04, 0.03, and 0.00 respectively); graft size was the only independent predictor of SFSS on multivariate analysis (P = 0.03). On the other hand, there was lower incidence of SFSS in patients with SFSG who underwent splenectomy [4/10 (40%) SFSS vs 3/7 (42.9%) no SFSS] but without statistical significance, However, there was none significant lower incidence of the syndrome in patients with right lobe (RL) graft when drainage of the right anterior and/or posterior liver sectors by middle hepatic vein, V5, V8, and/or right inferior vein was done [4/10 (28.6%) SFSS vs 52/152 (34.2%) no SFSS]. The 6-mo, 1-, 3-, 5-, 7- and 10-year survival in patients with SFSS were 30%, 30%, 25%, 25%, 25% and 25% respectively, while, the 6-mo, 1-, 3-, 5-, 7- and 10-year survival in patients without SFSS were 70.1%, 65.6%, 61.7%, 61%, 59.7%, and 59.7% respectively, with statistical significant difference (P = 0.00).

CONCLUSION

SFSG is the independent and main factor for occurrence of SFSS after A-ALDLT leading to poor outcome. However, the management of this catastrophe depends upon its prevention (i.e., selecting graft with proper size, splenectomy to decrease portal venous inflow, and improving hepatic vein outflow by reconstructing large draining veins of the graft).

Small for size syndrome difficult dilemma: Lessons from 10 years single centre experience in living donor liver transplantation

AIM

To analyze the incidence, risk factors, prevention, treatment and outcome of small for size syndrome (SFSS) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

METHODS

Through-out more than 10 years: During the period from April 2003 to the end of 2013, 174 adult-to-adults LDLT (A-ALDLT) had been performed at National Liver Institute, Menoufiya University, Shibin Elkoom, Egypt. We collected the data of those patients to do this cohort study that is a single-institution retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database analyzing the incidence, risk factors, prevention, treatment and outcome of SFSS in a period started from the end of 2013 to the end of 2015. The median period of follow-up reached 40.50 m, range (0-144 m).

RESULTS

SFSS was diagnosed in 20 (11.5%) of our recipients. While extra-small graft [small for size graft (SFSG)], portal hypertension, steatosis and left lobe graft were significant predictors of SFSS in univariate analysis (P = 0.00, 0.04, 0.03, and 0.00 respectively); graft size was the only independent predictor of SFSS on multivariate analysis (P = 0.03). On the other hand, there was lower incidence of SFSS in patients with SFSG who underwent splenectomy [4/10 (40%) SFSS vs 3/7 (42.9%) no SFSS] but without statistical significance, However, there was none significant lower incidence of the syndrome in patients with right lobe (RL) graft when drainage of the right anterior and/or posterior liver sectors by middle hepatic vein, V5, V8, and/or right inferior vein was done [4/10 (28.6%) SFSS vs 52/152 (34.2%) no SFSS]. The 6-mo, 1-, 3-, 5-, 7- and 10-year survival in patients with SFSS were 30%, 30%, 25%, 25%, 25% and 25% respectively, while, the 6-mo, 1-, 3-, 5-, 7- and 10-year survival in patients without SFSS were 70.1%, 65.6%, 61.7%, 61%, 59.7%, and 59.7% respectively, with statistical significant difference (P = 0.00).

CONCLUSION

SFSG is the independent and main factor for occurrence of SFSS after A-ALDLT leading to poor outcome. However, the management of this catastrophe depends upon its prevention (i.e., selecting graft with proper size, splenectomy to decrease portal venous inflow, and improving hepatic vein outflow by reconstructing large draining veins of the graft).

Patterns of Early Allograft Dysfunction in Adult Live Donor Liver Transplantation: The A2ALL Experience

BACKGROUND

Early allograft dysfunction (EAD) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has often been attributed to inadequate graft size, and termed small-for-size syndrome. Early allograft dysfunction definitions include a variable constellation of findings, including hyperbilirubinemia, coagulopathy, encephalopathy, and ascites formation. Among putative causes of EAD after LDLT are excessive portal pressure and/or flow. Our objective was to evaluate patterns of EAD after LDLT.

METHODS

In this study, 631 LDLT recipients were monitored for complications, EAD (defined by postoperative day 7 bilirubin >10 mg/dL or international normalized ratio >1.6), and graft failure. Approximately 200 had portal venous and arterial pressure and flow measurements before and after LDLT. Portal inflow modification (splenic artery ligation, hemiportocaval shunt, or splenectomy) was performed at the discretion of the operating surgeon. Associations between EAD and recipient, donor, and transplant factors were examined using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Risk of EAD was associated with left lobe grafts, lower graft weight among left lobes, higher preoperative bilirubin, higher portal reperfusion pressure, higher donor age, and higher donor body mass index. The risk of graft loss within the first 90 days was 5.2 times higher for recipients with EAD versus those without EAD (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Early allograft dysfunction can be defined using postoperative day 7 laboratory values that are highly predictive of early graft failure within 90 days. Risk factors associated with EAD after LDLT include: graft type and size, preoperative bilirubin, portal reperfusion pressure, donor age, and donor body mass index.

Adult living donor liver imaging

Adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is increasingly used for the treatment of end-stage liver disease. The three most commonly harvested grafts for LDLT are left lateral segment, left lobe, and right lobe grafts. The left lateral segment graft, which includes Couinaud's segments II and III, is usually used for pediatric recipients or small size recipients. Most of the adult recipients need either a left or a right lobe graft. Whether a left or right lobe graft should be harvested from the donors depends on estimated graft and donor remnant liver volume, as well as biliary and vascular anatomy. Detailed preoperative assessment of the potential donor liver volumetrics, biliary and vascular anatomy, and liver parenchyma is vital to minimize risks to the donors and maximize benefits to the recipients. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are currently the imaging modalities of choice in the preoperative evaluation of potential donors. This review provides an overview of key surgical considerations in LDLT that the radiologists must be aware of, and imaging findings on CT and MRI that the radiologists must convey to the surgeons when evaluating potential donors for LDLT.

Risk Factors for Intractable Ascites After Adult-to-Adult Living Donor Liver Transplantation Using Left Lobe

Background

Intractable ascites is one of the causes of graft loss after adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using a small graft. Identification of factors associated with increasing posttransplant ascites has important implications for prevention and treatment.

Methods

All 59 consecutive adult patients who underwent left lobe LDLT without portal inflow modulation between October 2002 and February 2016 were prospectively enrolled. Factors associated with the average daily amount of ascites for 2 weeks after LDLT were assessed.

Results

The median daily amount of ascites during the 2 weeks was 1052 mL (range, 52-3480 mL). Although 16 of the 59 patients developed intractable ascites, exceeding 1500 mL daily (massive ascites group), the remaining 43 patients produced less than 1500 mL of ascites daily (nonmassive ascites group). The presence of pretransplant ascites (P = 0.001), albumin (P = 0.011), albumin/globulin ratio (P = 0.026), cold ischemia time (P = 0.004), operation time (P = 0.022), and pretransplant portal vein pressure (PVP) (P = 0.047) differed significantly between the 2 groups. Neither posttransplant PVP nor portal vein flow differed between the 2 groups. The variables associated with intractable ascites that remained significant after logistic regression analysis were pretransplant PVP (P = 0.047) and cold ischemia time (P = 0.049). After appropriate fluid resuscitation for intractable ascites, 58 (98%) of the 59 recipients were discharged from hospital after removal of the indwelling drains.

Conclusions

It is important to shorten the scold ischemia time to reduce massive ascites after LDLT. Pretransplant portal hypertension is more closely associated with ascites production than posttransplant hemodynamic status.

Small-for-size syndrome in live donor liver transplantation-Pathways of injury and therapeutic strategies

Due to the severe organ shortage and the increasing gap between the supply and demand for donor grafts, live donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has become an accepted and alternative technique for the expansion of the donor pool. However, donor safety and good recipient outcomes must be balanced regarding risk stratification and decision-making within this patient population. Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is one of the complications encountered after LDLT, thus increasing the burden of optimizing donor graft selection and effective treatments during its occurrence. A graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR) <0.8 predisposes the graft to SFSS. However, other factors may induce this complication even without a graft-to-patient size mismatch. Several strategies to prevent this complication include portal vein flow and liver outflow modulation, as well as pharmacological treatment. Also, as an entity with a multifactorial etiology, outcomes vary between right-lobe, left-lobe, and posterior-lobe donation among series encountered in the literature. In this review, we analyze the pathophysiology and classification of this complication, the state-of-the-art on management of SFSS, and the outcomes regarding the best treatment strategy on this patient population.

Graft inflow modulation in adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) has an incidence between 0 and 43% in small-for-size graft (SFSG) adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Portal hypertension following reperfusion and the hyperdynamic splanchnic state are reported as the major triggering factors of SFSS. Intra- and postoperative strategies to prevent or to reduce its onset are still under debate. We analyzed graft inflow modulation (GIM) during adult LDLT considering the indications, efficacy of the available techniques, changes in hemodynamics and outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and the Cochrane Library Central. Treatment outcomes including in-hospital mortality and morbidity, re-transplantation rate, 1-, 3-, and 5-year patient overall survival and 1-, 3-, and 5-year graft survival rates, hepatic artery and portal vein flows and pressures before and after inflow modulation were analyzed.

RESULTS

From 563 articles, 12 studies dated between 2003 and 2014 fulfilled the selection criteria and were therefore included in the study. These comprised a total of 449 adult patients who underwent inflow modulation during adult-to-adult LDLT. Types of GIM described were splenic artery ligation, splenectomy, meso-caval shunt, spleno-renal shunt, portocaval shunt, and splenic artery embolization. Mortality and morbidity ranged between 0 and 33% and 17% and 70%, respectively. Re-transplantation rates ranged between 0% and 25%. GIM was associated with good survival for both graft and recipients, reaching an 84% actuarial rate at 5 years. Through the use of GIM, irrespective of the technique, a statistically significant reduction of PVF and PVP was obtained.

CONCLUSIONS

GIM is a safe and efficient technique to avoid or limit portal hyperperfusion, especially in cases of SFSG, decreasing overall morbidity and improving outcomes.

Left lobe living donor liver transplantation in adults: What is the safety limit?

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is the most significant cause of graft loss after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), especially after left lobe (LL) LDLT in adults. The safety limit of applying LL-LDLT in adults without severe SFSS with a high rate of lethality needs to be determined. A total of 207 LL-LDLTs in adults since September 2005 were evaluated to analyze the risk factors for severe SFSS, defined as a serum total bilirubin concentration of ≥20.0 mg/dL after LDLT. Although there were no significant differences in cumulative graft survival after LDLT between medium grafts (graft volume [GV] to standard liver volume [SLV] ratio ≥ 40.0%), small grafts (35.0% ≤ GV/SLV < 40.0%), and extra small grafts (GV/SLV < 35.0%), patients with severe SFSS showed a significantly lower 5-year graft survival rate than those without (42.9% versus 94.3%, respectively; P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis for severe SFSS after LL-LDLT showed that donor age of ≥48 years (P = 0.01), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score of ≥ 19 (P < 0.01), and end portal venous pressure of ≥19 mm Hg (P = 0.04) were the significant and independent factors for severe SFSS after LL-LDLT. Within such high-risk subgroups of patients with a donor age of ≥48 years or MELD score of ≥ 19 before LDLT, operative blood loss volume of ≥8.0 L was a risk factor for severe SFSS. LL-LDLT in adults could be indicated and provide acceptable outcomes for the combinations of donors aged < 48 years and recipients with a MELD score of <19. Smaller grafts might yield acceptable outcomes in appropriately selected donor-recipient combinations. Liver Transplantation 22 1666-1675 2016 AASLD.

Using on-site liver 3-D reconstruction and volumetric calculations in split liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Split liver transplantation increases the number of grafts available for transplantation. Pre-recovery assessment of liver graft volume is essential for selecting suitable recipients. The purpose of this study was to determine the ability and feasibility of constructing a 3-D model to aid in surgical planning and to predict graft weight prior to an in situ division of the donor liver.

METHODS

Over 11 months, 3-D volumetric reconstruction of 4 deceased donors was performed using Pathfinder Scout© liver volumetric software. Demographic, laboratory, operative, perioperative and survival data for these patients along with donor demographic data were collected prospectively and analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The average predicted weight of the grafts from the adult donors obtained from an in situ split procedure were 1130 g (930-1458 g) for the extended right lobe donors and 312 g (222-396 g) for left lateral segment grafts. Actual adult graft weight was 92% of the predicted weight for both the extended right grafts and the left lateral segment grafts. The predicted and actual graft weights for the pediatric donors were 176 g and 210 g for the left lateral segment grafts and 308 g and 280 g for the extended right lobe grafts, respectively. All grafts were transplanted except for the right lobe from the pediatric donors due to the small graft weight.

CONCLUSIONS

On-site volumetric assessment of donors provides useful information for the planning of an in situ split and for selection of recipients. This information may expand the donor pool to recipients previously felt to be unsuitable due to donor and/or recipient weight.

Graft-to-recipient weight ratio threshold adjusted to the model for end-stage liver disease score for living donor liver transplantation

The graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR) is an important selection criterion for living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). The generally accepted threshold is known to be 0.8%. We believe that this threshold can be reduced under certain conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of these patients with GRWR < 0.8%. Between 2004 and 2015, 649 patients underwent right lobe LDLT for end-stage liver disease in adult patients. All recipients who had GRWR < 0.8% were identified. The data of these patients were retrospectively analyzed and compared to patients with GRWR ≥ 0.8%. There were 43 patients with GRWR < 0.8%. Out of these patients, 7 (16%) had GRWR of 0.6%. The median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was 15, and the median donor age was 30 years. Anterior segment drainage was ensured. Portal inflow modulation was performed by splenic artery ligation according to the portal flow. Postoperative complications were seen in 6 (14%) patients. Of all 43 patients, 3 (7%) died perioperatively within 1 month, and 1 (2%) patient underwent retransplantation due to graft failure. The mean hospital stay was 18 days. The 1-year survival rate was 93%. None of the patients had a laboratory MELD score above 20. The comparison of the results with the patients who had GRWR ≥ 0.8% has shown no significant difference, except MELD score, body mass index (BMI), and rate of anterior segment drainage. The GRWR can be decreased even to 0.6% if the MELD score is below 20, donor age is below 45 years, and there are no signs for any hepatosteatosis of the donor graft. In these patients, it is essential that the anterior segment drainage is secured and the portal inflow modulation is performed according to the portal flow. Liver Transplantation 22 1643-1648 2016 AASLD.

Two-stage liver transplantation using auxiliary laparoscopically harvested grafts in adults: Emphasizing the concept of "hypersmall graft nursing"

BACKGROUND

Living donor liver transplantation is limited by the donor's risk in case of right liver donation and by the risk of small-for-size syndrome on the recipient in case of left lobe transplantation. This study aimed at evaluating the feasibility and results of two-stage liver transplantation using auxiliary hyper small grafts harvested laparoscopically and discussing relevant technical insights and issues that still need to be overcome.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis involving two patients operated at a tertiary referral center. The recipients underwent left lateral sectionectomy and then auxillary liver transplantation using laparoscopically harvested left lateral section. The native right liver was transiently left in place to sustain the initially small functional graft functional during its hypertrophy.

RESULTS

No donor experienced postoperative complication. After 7days, the hypertrophy rate was 112% (105-120). Doppler assessments during the first two postoperative weeks showed progressive portal vein inflow decrease in the right native livers and portal vein inflow increase in the grafts. Liver biopsies on postoperative day 7 showed no lesion of overperfusion. No recipient experienced liver failure or small-for-size syndrome. Second stage hepatectomy of the native liver was undertaken in one patient. In the other patient, biliary stenosis on postoperative day 30 precluded second stage hepatectomy. This patient required retransplantation after one year.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The current strategy increases donor safety and may allow increasing the pool of available grafts. Refinements in the management of the native right liver are however required to improve the feasibility rate of this strategy.